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The fascinating folds of the brain: Why does the cerebral cortex need so many wrinkles?
The cerebral cortex, or outer layer of the brain, is not just the covering of the brain, but one of the most important neural structures in humans and other mammals. It not only carries complex thinking and cognitive functions, but is also the key to higher-level brain functions such as consciousness, memory, and language. But what exactly is the importance of these wrinkles in neural tissue? How did this fascinating biological trait develop and form?
The folds of the cerebral cortex can provide a larger surface area within a limited space, which not only adapts to the human body structure but also greatly increases the complexity of its functions.
The human cerebral cortex accounts for about 40% of the brain's mass, of which 90% is the neocortex, a six-layer structure. These folds ensure that the cerebral cortex, which surrounds the brain, can accommodate more neurons without taking up too much space in the skull. This means that our brains are able to process information in an efficient and organized way, supporting our cognitive abilities.
Structure and function of the cerebral cortex
The cerebral cortex is folded from its outer tip into ridges (called gyri) and grooves (called sulci). Before birth, these folds of the brain gradually form and mature as the embryo develops, a process called arcuation. Except for a certain number of animals, such as small mammals, whose cerebral cortex is usually relatively smooth and without folds, the cerebral cortex of most mammals is obviously wrinkled.
The complete cerebral cortex can be divided into four main lobes: the frontal lobe, parietal lobe, temporal lobe and occipital lobe. Each lobe has its own specialized function. For example, the motor cortex is primarily responsible for movement control, while the visual cortex is responsible for processing visual information.
The cerebral cortex's primary function is to perform more sophisticated cognitive processing, which makes folds essential. These folds make the neurons' connections more compact, which in turn makes them more efficient.
Development of the cerebral cortex
The development process of the cerebral cortex is incredible and complex. Starting from the formation of the neural tube, the generation of neurons is regulated. This layer of the brain arises from the front part of the neural tube, called the forebrain, and gradually develops into the cerebral cortex as the fetus grows.
During fetal development, neural stem cells gradually transform into radial glial cells, which will gradually form the different nerve cells of the encapsulation layer. As neurons are generated, these nerve cells move outward to form different layers of the cerebral cortex, a process also known as "inside-out" neurogenesis.
The relationship between cerebral cortical folds and intelligence
As research deepens, more and more scientists are beginning to explore the relationship between the folds of the cerebral cortex and intelligence. Studies have shown that there is a positive correlation between the thickness of the cerebral cortex and intelligence in some people. This means that the structure and appearance of the cerebral cortex may be closely related to a person's cognitive ability, but this correlation still needs further exploration.
The process by which the folds of the cerebral cortex form, and how they vary between individuals, may explain why some people have sharper minds than others.
Brain volume, folds and their biological significance
As mammals evolved, brain volume and the folds of the cerebral cortex became increasingly important. The reason why the brain needs so many folds is that more neurons must be accommodated in a limited space. In small mammals, the cerebral cortex tends to be smoother, which is closely related to the differences in their cognitive ability requirements. Therefore, the folding of the cerebral cortex further strengthens the organization of neural circuits, enabling the brain to perform more complex processing.
In summary, the folds of the cerebral cortex not only enable it to conform to spatial constraints in the cranial cavity, but also provide the necessary structural support for brain function. What role will this wonderful natural design play in the future development of human cognition?
